Hand-Carved Indian Wooden Horse

This vintage hand-carved Indian wooden horse is a striking example of traditional Indian folk art.

Hand carved from a single piece of wood, the horse has the bold, stylised form often found in traditional folk carvings. The block-shaped head, arched neck and carved saddle and harness details give it a distinctive character, while the aged surface and natural wear add to its appeal.

The horse stands on a rectangular base with two holes running through it. These would originally have held the axle for a set of wooden or metal wheels, suggesting the piece was once a pull toy or wheeled decorative figure.

Today, it makes a distinctive decorative object with plenty of character, whether displayed on a shelf, sideboard or as part of a collection of folk art and antique wooden carvings.